WOW #038: A Springboard to Success

Quote of the Week:
“A strategic board has a view of looking ahead, an insight to look deeper, and the competency to look beyond.”
- Pearl Zhu

I was a terrible student in college.

I skipped classes (many of them).
My GPA never reflected my true potential. 
I spent most of my time playing sports and drinking cheap beer.
And of course, watching sports while drinking cheap beer. 

One of the bright spots of my college career was a 2-year job I held at The Red & Black. 

The Red & Black is an independent, student run newspaper that serves the University of Georgia and the surrounding Athens community. 

It was established in 1893. In that year, Grover Cleveland was inaugurated as President, Chicago hosted the World’s Fair (just the 2nd on US soil), Henry Ford built his first combustible gas engine…

And The Red & Black began covering the news. 

Last week, I returned to Athens for a one-day meeting as a Board Member of the same publication that helped launch my career many years ago. 

A classmate of mine whom I worked with as a student and later as colleagues in New York City invited me to apply and ultimately join. 

I had an amazing time. 

People come and go. Technology does what it does, and the headlines are always changing.

But a mission and a vision can last forever.

They make you glance ahead while at the same time gaze backwards. A reminder of where you started, what you've learned along the way, and what you have to give.

Serving on a board is a privilege.

You may not need an official Board just yet, but fresh perspectives and sound advice from people who want to see you succeed is critical.

If you have a chance to serve on a Board (or to start your own), I hope you take that opportunity.

In the whirlwind of running your own business, finding time for anything beyond day-to-day operations can seem like a heavy lift. Yet, amidst the chaos, this seemingly selfless act can be one of the most valuable investments you make for your business and yourself.

2 Takeaways:

1. Expand Your Network: Serving on a board introduces you to a diverse group of individuals from different industries and backgrounds. These connections often lead to partnerships, collaborations, and even new business opportunities. Networking isn't just about meeting others at professional events; it's about starting genuine relationships built on trust and respect.
   
   
2. Gain Fresh Perspectives: Running a business can sometimes feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. Serving on a board exposes you to different viewpoints and strategies that you may not have considered operating on your own. These insights can help you overcome challenges, spark innovation, and stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving market.

1 Action:
If you're on a Board, run a Board, or are in the process of starting one, check out the Zeck app from Ed Norton (yes, that Ed Norton).

An active, healthy Board produces a lot of communication and documents. Where possible, let technology lend a helping hand.

Happy May everyone, have a great week,

Hubert